Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Rex'

Category: Deciduous — Chinese rijstpapier plant

Fast-growing, exotic-looking shrub or small tree with an upright habit and spectacular, deeply incised, giant leaves that can reach a width of 60 to 90 cm. This plant reaches a height of 2 to 4 meters. Flowering is rare in colder climates; if it were to appear, it would be visible from October to November with white umbels on tall stems. Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Rex' thrives best in a sheltered, sunny location in well-drained, moist, but not too wet, humus-rich soil. It can be used as a specimen plant in exotic gardens. The plant is fairly disease-resistant, but young leaves are sensitive to wind and frost. Tetrapanax papyrifer 'Rex' is not poisonous, but the leaves and stems are covered with a fine down that can cause skin irritation or respiratory problems in sensitive individuals, so caution is advised when pruning or moving.